Applications of Ion Exchange in Environmental Remediation: Removal of Heavy Metals From Wastewater

The concern over heavy metal contamination and its impact on human health and the environment has led to a growing interest in cost-effective and sustainable remediation technologies. Ion exchange is recognized as an efficient method for removing heavy metal ions from wastewater. This study focused on the removal of heavy metal ions (Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) from aqueous solutions using the extended batch equilibrium technique. Experimental trials were conducted using Purolite C100, a strong acid ion-exchange resin, to assess the influence of various treatment parameters such as pH, contact time, sorbent dosages, and initial heavy metal concentrations on the removal efficiency. The results indicated that significant treatment equilibrium could be achieved within 1 h. Notably, pH levels between 5 and 6 had a significant impact on heavy metal removal, with adsorption capacities of 71, 67, 66, and 62 mg/g for Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb, respectively. Furthermore, the equilibrium data obtained from the batch experiments were well fitted with Langmuir, Freundlich, and pseudo-first-order kinetic models. Statistical analysis revealed a strong correlation with the Langmuir isotherm model, highlighting its superiority over the Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-first-order kinetic models.